Help! My Dog Needs to lose weight

Weight Management Process for Dogs

Maintaining a healthy weight in adult dogs (17 months or older) and puppies requires a structured approach. Whether transitioning to a raw diet or making dietary adjustments, tracking progress is key. Follow these steps to ensure the best results for your dog.

For Adult Dogs (17 Months or Older)

Step 1: Vet Check-Up

If your dog hasn't recently had a vet check-up, arrange one as soon as possible to rule out any medical conditions that could be influencing their weight.

Step 2: Assess Body Condition

Instead of relying solely on weight, use our 9-point body condition score to determine your dog’s physical condition:

• Score 5 – Ideal condition

• Score 4 – Leaner but healthy

• Score 6 – Slight excess weight but manageable

• Stockier breeds may lean toward a 6, while slimmer breeds may suit a 4.

  
  

Step 3: Dietary Considerations

Not Yet Raw-Fed or on a Mixed Diet

If there’s no medical reason for weight gain, transitioning to a raw diet can improve gut health, digestion, and nutrient absorption.

• Start at 2.5% of current weight using our feeding calculator.

• Follow our three-week transition guide to ensure a smooth dietary shift.

• After transitioning, re-weigh your dog and reassess body condition.

  • If above 5, reduce feeding to 2% of current weight.

  • If at 5, maintain the diet and monitor every two weeks.

  • If below 4-5, increase food allowance to 3% until reaching stability.

    
    

Already Fully Raw-Fed

⚠️ If your dog experiences gut upsets, begin with our Gut Reset Protocol before starting a weight loss plan.

Key adjustments for weight management:

✅ Eliminate treats – Use raw food for training.

✅ Remove root vegetables – No pumpkin, carrots, squash, or parsnips.

✅ Use nutritional support – Consider Prodog Raw Perform Supplement for essential nutrients.

✅ Double-check feeding amounts – Ensure food intake does not fall below 2% of body weight.

✅ Adjust protein sources – Choose low to moderate fat proteins with one higher-fat option per week. Swap standard eggs for quail eggs.

📊 Tracking Progress

• Log all food intake over two weeks and reassess.

• If weight loss stalls, adjust oily fish intake within meals instead of adding it separately.

• By week 4, weight loss should be visible—if not, schedule a follow-up vet visit and bring:

  • A four-week feeding diary.

  • Pre-feeding photos (from above & side).

    
    

For Puppies (Under 17 Months)

Because puppies grow rapidly, they may appear overweight at times. Before making dietary changes, consult a vet for a full assessment, including:

📌 Weight measurement

📌 Body condition scoring

📌 Review of a four-week food & exercise diary

Safe Weight Management Steps for Puppies

✔️ Transition to a raw diet – The only species-appropriate food from weaning onward.

✔️ Eliminate treats – Use raw food or interactive play for rewards.

✔️ Switch from “puppy” branded food – Opt for raw alternatives to introduce lean proteins and remove unnecessary fillers.

✔️ Avoid root vegetables – No pumpkin, carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.

✔️ Gradually adjust feeding amounts – If close to a new weight bracket (e.g., 22 weeks old), reduce intake by 0.5% per week for a smooth transition using our feeding allowance calculator.

Monitoring food intake, body condition, and overall health ensures your dog thrives at an optimal weight. Small, well-managed adjustments make a big difference in their wellbeing!

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